Ringworm Home Remedies Are Inexpensive and Good for Your Skin

Ringworm home remedies are a very good thing to have when your pet or your child turns up with a bout of ringworm. Going to the doctor for antibiotics can be especially expensive, and usually isn't necessary. Natural remedies are, in most cases, very effective at treating this type of skin fungus. If not, however, it is best to consult a doctor if the condition gets worse and isn't helped by alternative medicine.

How do you get ringworm?

Contrary to popular belief, ringworm is actually not caused by a worm under the skin. It is actually a type of fungus that belongs to the family called Dermatophytes. This skin fungus infects the cells of both humans and animals, causing a dark ring to appear that is very itchy and often scaly looking. Like most types of fungi, ringworm (or Tinea) grows very well in warm and wet places. This is why it is easy to pick up in locker rooms, gyms, and other public places where people may bathe. Tinea can be transferred from direct contact with others who have it, or by indirect contact. It is very contagious. Sharing items such as clothing, towels, hairbrushes, and lotions can spread the fungus from one person to the next very easily, so it is best to avoid doing so.

What does ringworm look like?

Typically, ringworm manifests itself on the skin of one's body, and on the scalp. When the scalp becomes infected, it is likely to last up to two weeks, while the skin usually only lasts 5-8 days with the condition. Untreated, however, it can worsen and cause skin to break and crack, becoming even more scaly and letting bacteria into the flesh, which can cause additional infections. If this happens, it is recommended that you see a doctor as soon as possible; tough antibiotics will be needed.

Natural Treatment for Ringworm The good news is that there are dozens of effective and inexpensive home remedies for ringworm. Most of these remedies are derived from food sources, mainly fruits. Papaya is one such fruit. You can peel a papaya and rub the flesh over the infected area a few times per day, and the fungus should be killed in a few days. Mustard seeds, ground into a thick paste with garlic oil, is also extremely effective. Many people will combine natural remedies to get the most treatment, so you may consider using turmeric or coconut oil as well every other day in addition to papaya and mustard seeds. Find out which remedies work the quickest on your skin, and you will be able to reuse the method if the problem ever crops up again.